New Year for the Merc Sets. Whatya Gonna Do ?

Fairlaneman · December 31, 2002 11:46PM

Hey Guys and Gals. Fell asleep last night early and woke up to a New Year. I've seen that most have been hiding through the Holiday Season or have just been busy. Come on out and talk a little now. The seasons stress is over and its time to figure out what to do with your sets.

Does anyone have and concrete laid plan for the year ? Are you going to hold out and find the one tough date that has been eluding you ? Upgrades, are they in the picture ? Just "Wing It" and hope to find some nice coins ? Whatya Gonna Do ?

I would like to find one of the last three that are needed for the set. Two 21P's have popped up here in Oregon in the past year but geez these folks out here think they are equalvilant (SP) to a 1933 Twenty Dollar gold piece price wise. Needless to say the search is still in progress. For sure some pieces will be bought for the Toned Set. Not chasing numbers for that set (Tee Hee) just looking for Eye Appeal coins. Yea I know Eye Appeal varies from person to person. My Eye Appeal coin is Dennis and Al's Dog. Oh well.

Anyway, Happy New Year, Happy Collecting and may progress be made this year within your sets. Good Luck to All.

Take Care.

Ken

mdwoods · December 31, 2002 11:55PM

Thanks to some excellent educational information from a fellow board member, I am going to be looking for 3 Mercs this year. A 1916 FB, a 1917 FB, and a 1920 or 1923 FB. mdwoods

fcloud · January 1, 2003 12:07AM

Ken,

I am probably going to continue on a haphazard method of collecting the Mercs. It is hard to say when something on my want/need list will come along. I do plan; however, to go to a lot more shows this year than I have in the last few years. Here in the mid-west the majority of dealers think the PCGS stuff is just a fad and all the coins are still just Unc. Of course unless they have a nice coin, then they send it in for certification. I have also pretty much come to the conclusion that there will be a lot more XF/AU coins than I would like. I am also hoping I can find some solid MS60 to MS62 instead of having to opt for XF/AU.

Tony

TAP444 · January 1, 2003 12:16AM

We will have to see what happens at the show next week,
maybe I will get lucky and find something for the set.
I need to cross that %90 area(free grading).
but the remaining coins are hard to find and very expensive
only time will tell
Tim

python1 · January 1, 2003 12:35AM

Ken,
Happy new year and to you and all the group.
I will attemp to fill one hole, and try to upgrade at least 3 to 65fb this year, I know this is a goal, that might be obtained. I will have to aquire a few that are toned(wink) in order to make this happen, because the white ones are just not there. The most important thing I will try to make happen, is helping all the Merc heads reach thier goals if I can. I honestly get more satisfaction doing that, than to find one for myself.
I would like to say to all of the new people, take your time and get the coins that you will enjoy for a long time, and not try to just fill a hole, that will save you a lot of time, frustration and money. I made the mistake of just buying the first coin that came up that filled my requirements, but was not real happy with it, and upgraded later only to find it cost me several dollars in the long run. It will take a few years just to find the right coin for you, and one that is just right for you, so sit back and enjoy the hunt.
Sorry, if I got a little off track with the thread, but I want to thank everyone for all thier input into this forum, it has made my experience of collecting the "Lil Lady" (Mercury) alot better.

Fairlaneman · January 1, 2003 12:44AM

Tim I have those Free Grades coming also but just plain cannot find anything to use them on. That would be a goal for the year also. I keep the hope that a complete MS collection will pop up at a coin show that has not been certified yet. Yep, I know, Dream On Ken. Have only seen one set like that in twenty plus years of doing this insanity.

Mark it was my pleasure. I certainly also enjoy the posts other people make about information about the series they collect. Maybe a New Years resolution for me would be to respond to the posts and Thank them for the information. Guess I should get rid of my Shy Streak that prevails about other coin series.

Tony,Haphazard, Hmmm..... thats me since 1981 (Off and On) with mostly Mercs and Type Coins. Pretty conservative when buying other items, but with coins I,m like a woman in a Shopping Mall. If Money is still left in the wallet, it Must be Spent.

As usual I forgot something in the original post. I deeply appreciate the Members that sold me coins last year. Every transaction was fantastic. Thanks Much to All and may some more transactions happen this year.

Ken

Fairlaneman · January 1, 2003 12:53AM

Hey Dennis you jumped in here while I was doing my two fingered typing again. Happy New Year ! You guys that are going to the Fun Show keep a eye open for nicely Toned Mercs. OK ?? If you find any let me know before you leave the Show.

I also agree. Helping the other folks is Much Fun to myself also. It appears to be Fun for quite a few of the members.

If you have something never hesitate, PM Me !!. Does not mean I will have the Bucks for it but you never know.

Ken

izzy452 · January 1, 2003 1:38AM

Happy New Year to all. Well Im going to do some upgrading on my sets.Thats about all. I sent in my 1936 proof 65 Merc in for my free submission. I hope it comes back a 66,stranger thing are known to happen LOL.

Well thats it for now. Take care and talk to you all soon.
Bye

Walt

Mark · January 1, 2003 2:00AM

Ken:

You ask, what am I gonna do? I presume I am gonna continue as I did this year, to function as a doormat for everyone to walk over as they up-grade their sets... sigh....

But, I do hope to up-grade to a couple more late-date Mercs to 67FB.

Mark

Fairlaneman · January 1, 2003 2:23AM

LMAO ! Mark its Not as Bad as you make it look. Taking ones time is a very desirable traight. Yep, just another of my humble opinions that is not followed by myself. Shhh.

Ken

mdwoods · January 1, 2003 2:30AM

I also agree. Helping the other folks is Much Fun to myself also. It appears to be Fun for quite a few of the members.

And it is much appreciated by Merc newbies like myself. Thanks Ken.

Mark, even a doormat is useful.

That was too funny. mdwoods

PTVETTER · January 1, 2003 3:07AM

Simply put, Mercury dime collectors are the best.

I have enjoyed everyone on the Registry and have outstanding dealing with ALL!!! TAP44 gave me a coin this which came at a time when work was just the pits. What a pick up that was. Mark has been infrount of me for years. the grouping is sooooooooo close that one coin puts one up and one down. its fun watching all the sets improve. I had half of what i have now and was higher in the standings. PCGS has done this right helping poeple present thier set over the internet so we can share information and friendship

To all
Happy New Year

LucyBop · January 1, 2003 3:10AM

I have plans to add a few heavy hitters to my fledgling Merc set, But I have so many holes, I plan on submitting some of my raw Mercs to fill some of the holes.......

Fairlaneman · January 1, 2003 4:58AM

Lucy what are you sending in ? Are you going to test PCGS on Mercs first or just go for it and see what happens. Be sure to let us know what happens with your submission.

Long Haired Mercs Rule opposed to........

Ken

LucyBop · January 1, 2003 6:19AM

I am planning on sending my Mercs to PCGs so I can upload them to my Registry set. No matter what they grade...
Here is my 38D:

The Obverse is very clean, and this coin is super shiny, it just doesn't show in the scan. No niks in Lady Libertys face and good detail in the wing..

The Reverse is also clean and nik free, and very shiny. I don't believe the split in the bands is strong enough for the designation. I am hoping for a ms65, maybe sneek into a 6.

This 39d is also very shiny, however you can see in the scan some problems on the cheek. When you look at the coin it isn't as exagerated as the scan is. The fields on this coin are clean and this one also has good detail in the wing.

A very clean Reverse with no niks, possible FSB, but I think it is also to weak for the desgination. I'm calling this one a ms64.

These are the 1st two I'll submitt along with some Frankies and some Roosies.........

remumc · January 1, 2003 11:38AM

Happy New Year everyone!!! I'm hoping to finish my set from 34 up in 65FB or better(except for the 45-P of course) plus add a few of the earlier dates in 63FB or better. I thank all of the wonderful board members for the help they have given me, you guys are the best!!!

Regards,

Wayne

quattrocoins · January 2, 2003 8:41AM

Happy New Year, All, and MUCH thanks to our "Group Guru", Ken.

I hope to be able to keep up with Pat. My set was #11 for all of a few hours on Saturday, 'til John joined us @ #9. Then Pat knocked it down to #13. Our sets are very close. The % complete and % FBs are the same, mine has a higher GPA (67.02 vs. 66.66), but his has a higher rating (29.12 vs. 28.41). I just recieved three upgrades (the first new coins for 2003), so we'll see if I can tighten up things. Also tradin' one borin' blast white 67FB '43-D for a gorgeously rainbow target toned gem.

With the upgrades, I'll be adding to my second set(#34 right now). Anyone interested in the white/whiter ones in there, they're available.

Good luck with your submissions, Lucy.

Best Wishes for a Healthy and Prosperous 2003 to All.

Don

Sweetly toned Winged Liberty, and

TAP444 · January 2, 2003 9:24AM

Oh one other goal is to upgrade all the 67fb dimes to 68fb
so everyone please send your coin money to me as I undertake this
great and impossible endeavor

Tim
(but they must all be toned 68fb dimes)

LucyBop · January 2, 2003 9:40AM

TAP444 I hope you do get a 68fb dime, you deserve one!

Cocoinut · January 2, 2003 12:27PM

I haven't been around the forum much recently for a couple of reasons: (1) I've been busy at work and with the holidays, and (2) I've been trying to avoid the temptation of spending money that I 've earmarked for the FUN show.

My goal for 2003 is to fill in 13 of the 14 gaps in my Merc set - all except for the '16-D. There are some other tough ones missing from my set: particularly the '19-D & S, '20-D, '21-P, '25-D & S, and '27-D & S. I'm leaving for Orlando in a few days, and hope to be able to pick up at least a couple of Mercs at the FUN show. I much prefer seeing a coin "live" before purchasing it, especially when it costs as much as those better date Mercs. If I have some success there, I’d like to go to the July/August ANA convention in Baltimore (I went to the one there in 1993, and found some great coins), but I probably wouldn't buy much before then. Also, if I see any nicely toned Mercs (like Aaron's '40-D that's on eBay) at FUN, they'll have a new home, at least temporarily.

Jim

TAP444 · January 2, 2003 12:41PM

Hey Jim,
guess I will see you at the fun show,iI believe Dennis
is going to the show also
Tim

Fairlaneman · January 2, 2003 12:44PM

Hey Guys/Gals thanks for the responses. Got you out of Hiding Finally.

Still have a Few that are staying in the shadows though. Come on Guys, lets hear something from you.

Don:

Geez don't call me a GURU.(Just Kidding) That brings back memories of when "The Bagwhan" took over part of central Oregon years back. "Old Fart" or something simular is OK though.

I am Very Envious of you folks going to the Fun Show. Damn I wish I could be there with you.

I suppose a trip will have to be made so I can entice you to come to Portland in 2004. Good Luck to you all at the Show.

Ken

quattrocoins · January 2, 2003 1:16PM

Ken,

You know that I meant that in the most respectful way. You are always ready to share your knowledge and help others. Of course, it helps that you're knowledgeable! You are to Mercs as Russ is to Kennedys! Thanks for all your help.

"Old Fart"?!? LOL
Heck, three weeks from today we'll be the same age!

Hopin' for another Winged Liberty for my birthday!

Respectfully,

Don

Winged Liberty, and

Cocoinut · January 2, 2003 2:12PM

Don,
You're going to be as old as Ken??? Boy, I guess that makes two old farts!

I'm not too far behind you, though (about 28 months, to be precise).

Tim,
I'm going to the PCGS Registry Reception next Friday. I hope to see you, Dennis, and some other board members there. It will be easier to locate people if they give us name tags with both our real names and our Forum names. Good luck in finding some additions to your collection.

Jim

LucyBop · January 2, 2003 2:17PM

and just how old are all you old farts?

Cocoinut · January 2, 2003 3:22PM

Lucy,

I'm not bashful. 53, turning 54 in May (but most people guess early to mid 40's).
Since you've shown yours, I'll show mine (face, that is)

If anyone sees me in Orlando next week, say hello.

Jim

LucyBop · January 2, 2003 3:26PM

Why Jim you handsome devil you!

Cocoinut · January 2, 2003 3:40PM

Lucy,

You're making me blush.

I don't look as good in shorts as you.

Jim

Fairlaneman · January 2, 2003 8:55PM

Hmmm......29 I think. Wow Jim is a Old Guy compared to me.

Nice Picture Jim. May it not come back to haunt you.

Ken

jbsteven · January 3, 2003 1:45PM

I will be adding afew more to my set. I have not been to a big show yet and will travel to probably Long Beach to bust my cherry. I have stopped buying raw coins and will only buy slabbed this year. looks like me, ptvetter and quattro will be duking it out this year for our spots and hopefully I can get to that next big hump in the standings by the end of the year.

good luck guys

New Year for the Merc Sets. Whatya Gonna Do ?

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